Police Chief Reports On Avon's Crime Concerns

AVON, CT — Violent crime in Avon isn't an issue, but property crime is a large concern, according to a report filed by Avon Police Chief Paul J. Melanson last week.

According to the report, submitted last week to Avon Town Manager Brandon Robertson and released Monday, larcenies, vandalism and stolen personal identification are a problem.

But two specific worries are occupying the time of APD officers, according to Melanson — residential burglaries and automobile thefts.

Melanson said there have been nine residential burglaries this year, all believed to be tied to an organized crime group called the "South American Theft Group."

Those incidents were between Jan. 30 and Feb. 10, Melanson reported, adding that organization is believed to have moved on to other parts of the country, perhaps as far south as Miami, Fla.

Since the last group left, there have been no reported home burglaries in Avon, according to the chief.

He said the department has upped patrols in several neighborhoods and continues to work with other police departments and the FBI regarding the South American organization.

Meanwhile, Melanson said the auto theft problem actually involves juveniles and youth adults stealing vehicles, an issue that has been a concern in recent years.

So far in 2023, Avon has had 13 stolen car reports.

These car thieves are not organized and the crimes appear to be random, Melanson said.

One problem growing in Avon, he said, are thieves breaking into cars by breaking windows and stealing what's inside, something captured on one home's surveillance camera and released to the public recently.

Melanson said police are increasing patrols to several neighborhoods, but there are obstacles to complete deterence.

"They are often driving stolen vehicles, take proactive measures to hide their identity and flee at high rates of speeds in these stolen vehicles when approached," wrote Melanson of suspects.

He said the public can also do their part to combat crime in town.

"The Avon Police Department will continue to be proactive in addressing these issues," Melanson wrote. "We also request the continued assistance of the community in reporting suspicious activity and securing valuables."

For the full Avon Police Department crime report, click on this link.